What is the function of an antibody?to inject toxins into living pathogensto mark pathogenic cells for destructionto bind to Toll-like receptorsto secrete cytokines that attract macrophages to infection sites

The function of an antibody is to mark pathogenic cells for destruction. Here's a step-by-step explanation:

1. Recognition: Antibodies, also known as immunoglobulins, are proteins produced by the body's immune system in response to a foreign substance (antigen) such as bacteria, viruses, or other pathogens. Each antibody is specific and can only bind to a particular antigen.

2. Binding: Once the antibody recognizes its specific antigen, it binds to it. This is like a lock and key mechanism where the antibody (lock) fits perfectly with its specific antigen (key).

3. Marking: The binding of the antibody to the antigen acts like a flag or marker. This marking process is also known as opsonization.

4. Destruction: The marked antigen is then recognized by other cells of the immune system, such as macrophages or T cells, which then engulf and destroy the pathogen.

So, the main function of an antibody is to mark pathogenic cells for